Celebrating Yachting Excellence: International Superyacht Society

If you are part of the global yachting community, you’ve heard of “ISS”, the International Superyacht Society. Founded in 1989, ISS represents the business of yachting in all its diversity. From coveted yacht and leadership awards, to educational fora held all over the world, to the best elbow-rubbing members events held at every major yacht show, ISS brings together the global yachting community in celebration and recognition.

The annual ISS Yacht and Leadership Awards Gala recognize the best vessels delivered in several size categories, and adorn the offices of most of the top yacht builders from every continent. Many builders are recipients of multiple awards, spanning decades, including Heesen Yachts, whose first win was in 1991, for L’acquisition, again in 2001 for Alumercia, followed in 2014 with Galactica Star winning Best Yacht 65m+. Demonstrating the necessary spirit of international collaboration which so exemplifies yachting, 2024 ISS Finalist Heesen Yachts 67m full custom yacht Sparta, is designed by the frequent ISS award winners Winch Design.

ISS created the first “people” awards of yachting, ranging from the always dramatic Distinguished Crew Awards, to the Leadership Awards which have recognized luminaries from shipyards, naval architecture and design. Heesen Yachts founder Frans Heesen was awarded the Business Person of the Year in 2009.

The yacht world, while truly international, and also a tight knit community, where who you know really matters. The International Superyacht Society, representing over 600 businesses from over 50 countries, brings us all together. From yacht builders and designers, to the top business leaders in every sector, and the captain & crew who make it all possible – if you want to meet and do business with the Who’s Who of yachting – join and support the International Superyacht Society.

Superyachtsociety.org

Written By Norma Trease
Board Member Emeritus, ISS